Caerphilly van converter Vantastec Ltd is celebrating its 20th anniversary by gearing up for its biggest year yet.
The firm, based in Ystrad Mynach, specialises in temperature-controlled vehicle conversions, double cab vans, and bespoke builds for businesses and local authorities throughout the UK.
Founded in 2006, Vantastec has grown into a multi-award-winning van converter and one of the UK’s largest suppliers of refrigerated vehicles.
Co-founder and Managing Director Gareth Edwards said:
“20 years is no small feat in our industry. During that time, we’ve built over 5,000 conversions for over 10,000 organisations throughout the UK – from village butchers to international distributors and government bodies.
“Without their support and the hard work of our fantastic team, Vantastec wouldn’t have stood the test of time.
“There’s been plenty of challenges – especially in recent years. But with a record number of vehicles ordered for us to convert this year, we are looking forward to making 2026 our biggest and best year yet.”
Vantastec was founded by Managing Directors Colin Smith and Gareth Edwards, who previously worked together for a commercial vehicle maintenance company in Cardiff.
After several years operating out of Mr. Edwards spare bedroom in Bedwas, Vantastec eventually moved into its first premises in Penallta Industrial Estate.
In 2013, Vantastec moved to its current 30,000 sq. ft. facility on Caerphilly Road in Ystrad Mynach, which they later purchased from their landlords in 2023.
The same year, Vantastec also became employee-owned, forming an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).
Despite consistent year-on-year growth, Mr. Edwards explained how persistent economic and environmental challenges have forced Vantastec to reflect on the highs and lows of the last 20 years.
He said:
“It’s been a tough two decades for UK businesses. Our industry is no different.
“2008 to 2010 were some of our toughest years. Navigating a global financial crisis was very taxing, not to mention the 2020 pandemic, which we all still seem to be feeling the effects of.
“Other periods of uncertainty, such as Brexit and the 2025 Autumn Budget, have also made things even more challenging.
“Thankfully, 2026 has been very positive so far. It appears buyers are far more confident and are adopting an attitude of ‘all that is behind us, let’s get back to business’.
“I’m sure it’s not going to be easy. But we’re certainly looking forward to 2026 and embracing a more positive landscape for our industry.”
